Interview of Pamela Sinclair - ItGirl Designs Owner

Today I'd like to present an interview of ItGirl Designs Owner, Pamela Sinclair.

Website: http://www.itgirldesigns.com
Portfolio: http://www.behance.net/itgirldesigns

BIO:
I have over twelve years of experience in web & graphic design as well as creative consulting. I am a lover of books, art, technology, and most things chocolate.

Design isn't just a job for me--it's one of my passions. The ability to bring an idea of my own to life is gratifying; being able to help others bring their ideas to life is priceless.

When I am not designing, I can usually be found with a book in hand or loaded on my laptop or a reading device.

Q: Describe your job.
A: I design book covers, promo pieces, and websites for authors and those in the book industry.

Q: What motivated you to get involved in the romance industry?
A: I am the typical girl who dreamed of the princes and castles. Well sometimes tycoons, bad boys, and a wolf or vamp or two as I got older.

Being able to create them visually and bringing fantasies/dreams to life in some small way for others is exciting.

Is there anything better than being able to be a part of an industry based on love or the idea of it?

Q: What's one important thing you've learned about your job as you became more involved in it.
A: Oh wow! I’ve learned so many more than just one, but I understand the blog spot isn’t big enough to hold them all.

Authors and publishers have many different expectations when looking for a cover design. It is really important to listen to their ideas and needs, but at the same time speak up with what you feel may work best. It’s all about effectively communicating with each other and being willing to be flexible when it comes to delivering a final product that you can both be proud of.

Just another tiny something because I can’t help myself to keep it to one. There seems to be a stock shortage on blonde haired men and young adult who look like normal young adults.

Finish this sentence: Romance is.......the next best thing to sushi and cheesecake.

Q: How do you handle complaints/negative feedback from readers/authors?
A: When entering into anything – especially in a creative field, you have to be prepared to receive negative feedback and criticism. While it can be a bit disheartening and disappointing, it can be a good place to look for areas to improve upon.

If it is something in my work or service I provide I can make better, I make every effort to do so.

Taking a deep breath sometimes followed by a piece of chocolate or two is called for sometimes too.

Q: Ebooks or print. Do you read both? If you read ebooks, what reader do you have?
A: I read both. I actually use my laptop to read ebooks with the most. I am on it all the time for work so having an ebook pulled up in a separate window is a wonderful way to take a break and get some reading in. I also use my iPad as well as my iPhone sometimes.

Q: What do you consider the best way for an author to do promos?
A: Blogging, Social Media, and Networking. Connecting with their fans and other industry reps. Finding unique angels to standout.

Q: Conferences and conventions. Do you attend any and how do you decide which ones to go to?
A: Though I’ve been in design for over twelve years, I’ve just started offering my services specifically for authors/book industry the end of 2012 so I’ve not been to any events. I’m in a rural town in south Alabama so location would play a factor as well. I’d love suggestions and recommendations!

Q: What’s the one most important thing a reader/author should know about your business?
A: That I am happy to work with you until the result is something we can both be proud of.

Q: Chats. How important do you feel it is for authors to take part in chats on loops or at other romance sites?
A: I think they are a great way to meet and get to know their readers. Connecting with readers can be a big morale boost and help to decide what direction to go on their next story. As a reader myself, it’s always wonderful to know an author cares and will take the time to answer a question or hang out virtually for a bit.

Q: Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc. Where do you appear?
A: I am on Linkedin, Twitter and Facebook! I don’t have official “It Girl” accounts yet, but you can connect with me on my personal accounts.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pams00
Twitter: twitter.com/pams00
Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/pamela-sinclair/a/6b6/157

Please add anything else you feel is important.

I’d be happy to work with anyone needing a cover, site, or promo related item. Please contact me at hireitgirl@gmail.com to get the conversation started about your project.

For anyone needing services who mentions they found me at RB4U, I’ll provide a 20% discount.